Rock Quarry and Stone Aggregate Companies Key Terms

Understand the terms associated with rock quarry and stone aggregate companies

By Mary Yamin-Garone

Rock quarry and stone aggregate companies are in high demand. They offer a variety of products that can satisfy almost any need. Whether it be constructing a highway or interstate, building a walkway or retaining wall or improving on a business or home’s landscaping, these companies have what it takes to get the job done. Representatives make on-site visits, evaluate the project and then recommend the rock or stone best suited for the job. Before engaging the services of a rock quarry or stone aggregate company, it is important to understand some basic terminology.

Flagstone

Flagstone is a common term for most flat stone found in buildings and landscaping. This sedimentary stone is divided into thin layers thereby giving it versatility. Flagstone is available in a wide array of colors and generally comes in one to four-inch thicknesses. Its "natural," non-slip surface makes it an ideal choice for interior and exterior projects, such as walkways, steps and floors.
Try: Learn the definition of flagstone, the different types and their benefits by visiting Buzzle.com.

Limestone

Limestone is one of the most adaptable stones around. This sedimentary rock commonly forms in clear, warm, shallow marine waters from the accumulation of shell, coral, algal and fecal debris. Limestone is used in construction materials and road ballasts.
Try: Natural Stone Interiors offers more detailed information regarding limestone.

Crushed stone

Crushed stone is one of the world's most easy to access natural resource, making it popular in construction and agriculture. This angular rock--also known as a type of construction aggregate--is usually produced by mining an appropriate rock deposit. The removed rock is then broken down to the preferred size with "crushers."
Try: North Carolina’s Department of Environment and Natural Resources provides an overview of crushed stone.

Gravel

Gravel is any loose rock that exceeds two millimeters in its greatest dimension (about one-half- inch) and no larger than 64 millimeters (or 2.5 in.). This type of aggregate is a major commercial product that serves a number of purposes. Gravel is frequently used to surface roads particularly in low-traffic rural areas.
Try: ThinkQuest defines gravel and explains its purpose and how and where it is mined.

Sedimentary rocks

Sedimentary rocks are one of the three major rock groups. Most are formed in locations where water was once present. Sedimentary rocks hold significant information concerning the earth's history. They also house fossils, the preserved remnants of ancient plant and animal life.
Try: Graniteland explains the different types of sedimentary rocks and how they are formed.

Granite rocks

Granite rocks are igneous--or fire rocks--that form on top or beneath the ground. Their durability makes them a popular choice for retaining walls and monuments and for aesthetically enhancing a structure.
Try: Ranger Rocks defines granite rocks and lists their advantages and uses.